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Jon Oklar #2
Hunted Sorcery
Illegal sorcery is on the rise. The quiet life Jon once had before venturing to the capital is but a distant memory. Murderous threats to the throne skulk through city streets. A rebellious army is growing. But the king—the overwhelmed ruler of Lycast who Jon has sworn to protect—is just one of many targets. The mages who use this illegal sorcery have a leader, and this leader wants something from Jon.
It wasn’t long ago that Jon came to the castle with seven other sorcerers desperate to prove themselves. While Jon considers many of them his friends, at least one might actually be his enemy.
Those plotting against the king are everywhere, most posing as ordinary citizens. During the hunt for these sorcerers, Jon will learn just how powerful his own sorcery can become, but at what cost? Sacrifices must be made no matter Jon’s choices. Whatever he decides to do, it has to be done quickly. The traitor in the castle is waiting for something, and no one seems to have any idea what it is.
It wasn’t long ago that Jon came to the castle with seven other sorcerers desperate to prove themselves. While Jon considers many of them his friends, at least one might actually be his enemy.
Those plotting against the king are everywhere, most posing as ordinary citizens. During the hunt for these sorcerers, Jon will learn just how powerful his own sorcery can become, but at what cost? Sacrifices must be made no matter Jon’s choices. Whatever he decides to do, it has to be done quickly. The traitor in the castle is waiting for something, and no one seems to have any idea what it is.
589 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 22, 2022
Ugh! I struggled through this the entire time. The immaturity of these characters is ridiculous. There’s no way I can go on with this series.
July 13, 2020
A remarkable addition to an already stunning series! Jon and friends are thrown into the middle of a messy battle between the kingdom and corrupt mages. No one knows who to trust; accusations and suspicions hover behind every conversation. The tension in this book had me biting my nails the entire time!
Jon fights to become more powerful, all the while being hunted by dteria users. He desperately wants to protect his friends and the kingdom, but with a traitor in the castle, everything is uncertain. The battle scenes, emotional confrontations between friends, and Jon’s struggle to come to terms with his own failures left me dying to read more!
Fans of fantasy adventure, magic, mystery, and awesome books in general will be hooked! And if you’re already a fan of Narro’s, you’ll love this series. Just be sure to head over to book 1 first.
Jon fights to become more powerful, all the while being hunted by dteria users. He desperately wants to protect his friends and the kingdom, but with a traitor in the castle, everything is uncertain. The battle scenes, emotional confrontations between friends, and Jon’s struggle to come to terms with his own failures left me dying to read more!
Fans of fantasy adventure, magic, mystery, and awesome books in general will be hooked! And if you’re already a fan of Narro’s, you’ll love this series. Just be sure to head over to book 1 first.
May 19, 2022
Reader thoughts: I got 75% or so into the book. I kept pushing myself to read but was so frustrated with all the issues. I ended up returning it.
Biggest problem: Jon suddenly decided he wanted to sleep with his classmate/coworker Kat (I don't know how to spell her full name). In 2 days he goes from barely noticing her to deciding she is witty and blunt and has nice boobs. They talk privately in his bedroom. She explains how they can never be romantically involved because she is noble, and her family has expectations, and she kind of likes the guy she's half-betrothed to anyway. Then
Other problem: Jon is still a Mary Sue. He doesn't win all of his fights, but he survives them against ridiculous odds and is trusted by everyone and liked by everyone. He is learning new spells much faster than the others and not running against any real barriers.
One part of the plot was kind of dumb.
Other parts were fine. Everyone is a suspect! (except Jon) I don't really like plots that have everyone under suspicion. It's too depressing. I want to trust someone.
I still like the magic system and that the characters are exploring its theory and how the notes affect spells to invent new ones. That's cool. It shows characters being clever.
Writer thoughts: One author said the best way to write a novel (especially fantasy) is to set up a world that works one way and then have a character come along and change (or break or bend) one of the rules. Maybe a character's magic is different from everyone else's. Or they are from the wrong background or can't do X even though everyone else can.
If Jon Oklar could figure out how to add new notes to his spells to alter them in new ways (with Charlie's ideas), that would be enough of a novel concept (pun intended) to hold the book with a decent plot thrown in.
The Un-Magician uses this idea. Everyone in the world can do magic except Timothy.
Open Minds also uses this idea. Everyone in the world can read minds except Kira.
The Final Empire uses this idea. Magic lets allomancers burn a metal for one power, but Vin can burn ALL the metals for ALL the powers!
Ella Enchanted wasn't blessed by her fairy godmother but accidentally cursed.
In Changeling (and Voice of Power), only nobles have magic, except Sarah (and Elena) is born a peasant and has magic.
Biggest problem: Jon suddenly decided he wanted to sleep with his classmate/coworker Kat (I don't know how to spell her full name). In 2 days he goes from barely noticing her to deciding she is witty and blunt and has nice boobs. They talk privately in his bedroom. She explains how they can never be romantically involved because she is noble, and her family has expectations, and she kind of likes the guy she's half-betrothed to anyway. Then
Other problem: Jon is still a Mary Sue. He doesn't win all of his fights, but he survives them against ridiculous odds and is trusted by everyone and liked by everyone. He is learning new spells much faster than the others and not running against any real barriers.
One part of the plot was kind of dumb.
Other parts were fine. Everyone is a suspect! (except Jon) I don't really like plots that have everyone under suspicion. It's too depressing. I want to trust someone.
I still like the magic system and that the characters are exploring its theory and how the notes affect spells to invent new ones. That's cool. It shows characters being clever.
Writer thoughts: One author said the best way to write a novel (especially fantasy) is to set up a world that works one way and then have a character come along and change (or break or bend) one of the rules. Maybe a character's magic is different from everyone else's. Or they are from the wrong background or can't do X even though everyone else can.
If Jon Oklar could figure out how to add new notes to his spells to alter them in new ways (with Charlie's ideas), that would be enough of a novel concept (pun intended) to hold the book with a decent plot thrown in.
The Un-Magician uses this idea. Everyone in the world can do magic except Timothy.
Open Minds also uses this idea. Everyone in the world can read minds except Kira.
The Final Empire uses this idea. Magic lets allomancers burn a metal for one power, but Vin can burn ALL the metals for ALL the powers!
Ella Enchanted wasn't blessed by her fairy godmother but accidentally cursed.
In Changeling (and Voice of Power), only nobles have magic, except Sarah (and Elena) is born a peasant and has magic.
July 19, 2020
4. I enjoyed this but there are some things that annoy me. The MC can be demanding/childish at times.... honestly there were a number of times where if I were his teacher/king/the elf/an adult, I would have told him to shut the F up. The sequence where someone is suspected but is sent out with everyone to the woods to see a recluse elf is just odd. Would you really send a group of kids to see an elder being like the elf? These young adults often come off as petulant. Wouldn't she only want to see one person....? The bickering "who done it" section was annoying. It felt like it went on forever and i found myself skimming over it. The Kat romance section out of no where could have gone better. Build up a compelling female and interactions without the teen angst.
As complicated as the magic system is, what they can do is not that interesting yet. They can each do maybe 1-2 spells and barely. Then every dark mage can cast 25 times the number of spells before tiring and at 5 times the strength. Basically considering how many pages of 2 books are spent talking about the magic system there doesn't feel like enough pay off.
I enjoyed the ending. I thought it was well done.
As complicated as the magic system is, what they can do is not that interesting yet. They can each do maybe 1-2 spells and barely. Then every dark mage can cast 25 times the number of spells before tiring and at 5 times the strength. Basically considering how many pages of 2 books are spent talking about the magic system there doesn't feel like enough pay off.
I enjoyed the ending. I thought it was well done.
December 11, 2021
I don't think I will continue this series.
It's well written, and if I read it years ago, would be fun, but I can't take the slow burn.
Many of the books I read recently has had a weight and urgency to them. This book is just annoying me. I can't enjoy the protagonist being slapped around. I also can't enjoy the protagonist trying to slightly wound people that are trying to kill him ( I understand he wants to question them, but I still don't like it).
This book has been annoying since the start. I understand you have to make your protagonist as human as possible by having them struggle and overcome their tribulations... but everyone just seems stupid and dumb.
While reading this I wanted to drop it countless times when someone did something utterly stupid. There is probably a reason why I had this book for months and didn't read it, I subconsciously knew.
I finished the book, and even the big revelations aren't enough for me to continue the series.
My journey ends here.
3/5 Stars
It's well written, and if I read it years ago, would be fun, but I can't take the slow burn.
Many of the books I read recently has had a weight and urgency to them. This book is just annoying me. I can't enjoy the protagonist being slapped around. I also can't enjoy the protagonist trying to slightly wound people that are trying to kill him ( I understand he wants to question them, but I still don't like it).
This book has been annoying since the start. I understand you have to make your protagonist as human as possible by having them struggle and overcome their tribulations... but everyone just seems stupid and dumb.
While reading this I wanted to drop it countless times when someone did something utterly stupid. There is probably a reason why I had this book for months and didn't read it, I subconsciously knew.
I finished the book, and even the big revelations aren't enough for me to continue the series.
My journey ends here.
3/5 Stars
May 5, 2022
I really hate not finishing books. But WOW! This book is boring! I had to stop at the 75% mark. And even getting that far was painful. While the first book was far from perfect, I did hope that things would improve. Instead things got worse in this book. The magic system, which at first was intriguing, if confusing at times, simply did not evolve in this book. All the characters can only do one thing. The MC can literally only cast a spell powerful enough to give someone a shove. Oh and heal. Which exhausts him and he seems compelled to do so in the midst of battles which leave him too exhausted to actually fight properly. What's worse he literally never strives to progress his power whatsoever. In fact he seemed to spend every fight simply getting thrown around like a rag doll by the bad guys.
I had high hopes for this series, but the story (yawn!) and the lack of literally any progression in any of the MC's abilities really grew annoying. For the life of me I cannot understand why this book has such high reviews.
I had high hopes for this series, but the story (yawn!) and the lack of literally any progression in any of the MC's abilities really grew annoying. For the life of me I cannot understand why this book has such high reviews.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2022
I gave this 5 stars because I looked at objective evidence, not just subjective opinion. That evidence was that I got to the end of the book and immediately bought book #3 to keep reading. OK, i often buy succeeding books in a series to which I would not give 5 Stars, but in this case, I felt compelled to see how the characters develop - especially "Jon Oklar", the protagonist. The author has done an excellent job of crafting his system of magic such that it is discoverable and even designable - practitioners can use their creativity to discover and possibly even create new uses for their magical energy. Mr. Narro has included an appropriate dollop of young love and even some heartbreak. I recommend it - and OBTW, I did buy book #4 after #3.
July 22, 2020
Author is fantastic.
B.T. Narrow has not disappointed me yet. Every single story he has written has been amazing! His character development is great, not only does he create a character you can enjoy the personal growth you watch with each one just makes one feel able to relate.
This story so far does not just keep you waiting to see where it goes it also seems to make you feel what the main character feels. It is incredibly well put together and would recommend this to anyone!!
B.T. Narrow has not disappointed me yet. Every single story he has written has been amazing! His character development is great, not only does he create a character you can enjoy the personal growth you watch with each one just makes one feel able to relate.
This story so far does not just keep you waiting to see where it goes it also seems to make you feel what the main character feels. It is incredibly well put together and would recommend this to anyone!!
October 7, 2021
For the most part, this book was fun and enjoyable. I'm just not a fan of romantic sub plots half the time and so Jon getting #feelings for a girl was honestly tedious for me to read. Especially the angst that followed. I was additionally rather put off by the demi-gods subplot - it feels like too much like Jon was made too powerful so a more powerful thing had to be forced into story. Overall, it just felt a little rough and needed a bit more fine tuning to make it actually flow and work well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2023
Second in the series of five, taking place about a week after the first book. Jon Oklar continues his search for magic and the fight of good magic and bad magic continues as does the search for the traitor in the midst of the young sorcerers. The final battle against the evil Cason is fought as the good guys realise that he is not the leader of the bad guys. A demigod is, being stronger physically and magically than any human. Another demigod helps in their fight. The traitor is finally exposed. A well written series.
January 20, 2021
Slow, stodgy, uninteresting
It was work to get through Book 1. I can't finish Book 2. The plot barely moves from page to page. The 1st person perspective is repetitive, narrow, and boring. Characters feel shallow. Setting is superficial and cliche. Thought maybe this was a new inexperienced author, but when I found out this is his 17th book, I decided to just be done. Might be ok reading for young teens.
It was work to get through Book 1. I can't finish Book 2. The plot barely moves from page to page. The 1st person perspective is repetitive, narrow, and boring. Characters feel shallow. Setting is superficial and cliche. Thought maybe this was a new inexperienced author, but when I found out this is his 17th book, I decided to just be done. Might be ok reading for young teens.
November 26, 2024
This book was very up and down. Very slow at some parts and very fast at others. The revelation of the demigods was a bit abrupt and the traitor revelation seemed poorly timed. Idk I love Narro’s writing style and I love Jon as a main character too. I’m definitely continuing the series. Simon B Vance is one of the best narrators I have stumbled upon. Also whispersync with kindle and audible is amazing.
July 15, 2020
Treachery Among The Trusted
Who is the traitor among them? Jon, the King and others look for the one informing the enemy of their plans. Tension ensues as the band of young sorcerers wonder which friend is the traitor. The characters feel real. I experience the emotion as love blomed and crashed. I like the action, humor, and romance. I look forward to the next book.
Who is the traitor among them? Jon, the King and others look for the one informing the enemy of their plans. Tension ensues as the band of young sorcerers wonder which friend is the traitor. The characters feel real. I experience the emotion as love blomed and crashed. I like the action, humor, and romance. I look forward to the next book.
July 21, 2020
Solid second book in series
Solid and interesting. The world building is subtle and well weaved into the story. So many times authors get so caught up in endless details of the world the story takes place in that the story suffers. Not the case here. I look forward to that third book.
Solid and interesting. The world building is subtle and well weaved into the story. So many times authors get so caught up in endless details of the world the story takes place in that the story suffers. Not the case here. I look forward to that third book.
September 5, 2020
Great series
Wow. Such a interesting world. The characters are all interesting. Tons of unknowns in the story. Defendantly not a story that the ending is a given. Lots of twists that I never saw coming. Extremely interesting magic system as well. Just a great second book. Looking forward to a third!
Wow. Such a interesting world. The characters are all interesting. Tons of unknowns in the story. Defendantly not a story that the ending is a given. Lots of twists that I never saw coming. Extremely interesting magic system as well. Just a great second book. Looking forward to a third!
September 12, 2020
Another good read
BT has created another wonderful world to enjoy with some familiar old “friends”, krepps. With a new twist on magic, I also enjoy the depth of characters. In BT’s books he touches on all human issues such as abuse, abandonment, autism, sociopaths, etc. Can’t wait for his next book!
BT has created another wonderful world to enjoy with some familiar old “friends”, krepps. With a new twist on magic, I also enjoy the depth of characters. In BT’s books he touches on all human issues such as abuse, abandonment, autism, sociopaths, etc. Can’t wait for his next book!
November 10, 2020
More Action, Magic, and Mayhem
The plot gets thicker, as does the social issues and politics of the day. Mistrust is rampant, and a hidden enemy keeps everyone busy. Good thing magic, dedication, and loyalty can help! This is a great book 2: expanding on everything, and offering more drama, plot, friction, friendship, and growth. Good stuff. Recommended (15+)
The plot gets thicker, as does the social issues and politics of the day. Mistrust is rampant, and a hidden enemy keeps everyone busy. Good thing magic, dedication, and loyalty can help! This is a great book 2: expanding on everything, and offering more drama, plot, friction, friendship, and growth. Good stuff. Recommended (15+)
August 17, 2020
Serious letdown
This read like Inspector Clouseau tries to be a wizard - no humor involved.
Like: the development of the environment
Dislike: the main characters kept morphing from child like to ten to adult to smart to dumb.
Don’t think I will continue this series.
This read like Inspector Clouseau tries to be a wizard - no humor involved.
Like: the development of the environment
Dislike: the main characters kept morphing from child like to ten to adult to smart to dumb.
Don’t think I will continue this series.
September 9, 2020
Wonderful
Please keep this series going! Loved it. I have been looking for a series that would engage me as much as the wheel of time did. I love the it is written from the very personal perspective of Jon. It made him very relatable.
Please keep this series going! Loved it. I have been looking for a series that would engage me as much as the wheel of time did. I love the it is written from the very personal perspective of Jon. It made him very relatable.
September 20, 2020
Good read, the storyline moves quickly.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and series, I did become a little frustrated at Jon's lack of abilities. I think it would have been better to see Jon gain the powers to fight off the Dark Wizards.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and series, I did become a little frustrated at Jon's lack of abilities. I think it would have been better to see Jon gain the powers to fight off the Dark Wizards.
November 14, 2020
Use of the word cast.
Casted is incorrect. It should be cast. I.e. Yesterday i cast fireball at a horde of malcontents. Other than the glaring misuse of this word over and over, the series has a good storyline and is well written.
Casted is incorrect. It should be cast. I.e. Yesterday i cast fireball at a horde of malcontents. Other than the glaring misuse of this word over and over, the series has a good storyline and is well written.
January 12, 2022
I'm conflicted
The story was told very well it was deep and exciting but I must admit I'm becoming less interested in finishing this series I like my hero protagonist to kick ass and the bad guys to lose
The story was told very well it was deep and exciting but I must admit I'm becoming less interested in finishing this series I like my hero protagonist to kick ass and the bad guys to lose
December 29, 2020
Good action
Good action. Looks like I will continue with the series. Jon is getting stronger and th others are as well. We'll see how the impending war goes.
Good action. Looks like I will continue with the series. Jon is getting stronger and th others are as well. We'll see how the impending war goes.
April 29, 2021
Worth it
It’s a good book for fantasy fans it gets a little dull towards the end b4 it picks up and makes you wanna finish it
It’s a good book for fantasy fans it gets a little dull towards the end b4 it picks up and makes you wanna finish it
May 13, 2021
One of my favorites
This is one of my favorite series of books. They are interesting to read and the author is a great story teller.
This is one of my favorite series of books. They are interesting to read and the author is a great story teller.
May 19, 2021
Wow
How does B. T. Narro keep everything together? I had to reread some of the chapters to try to understand what was happening. Now for book 3.
How does B. T. Narro keep everything together? I had to reread some of the chapters to try to understand what was happening. Now for book 3.
June 14, 2021
Great read and follow up to book 1. Really enjoyed the storyline and characters.
May 28, 2022
Excellent continuation on the world building of the first novel.
Want to Read
March 8, 2023Recommended by James. Seems snarky funny. “You’re supposed to say, ‘you’ll make her very happy.”
“You’ll make her very happy.”
“That was extremely convincing.”
“You’ll make her very happy.”
“That was extremely convincing.”
May 17, 2023
Excellent book. I enjoyed reading it very much and I am looking forward to the next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews